http://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.us/department/news/368
enCold Weather Tips From Austin Waterhttp://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.us/news/cold-weather-tips-austin-water-4
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<p>AUSTIN—With freezing weather in the forecast, Austin Water is reminding residents to protect their property and prevent property damage and uncontrolled water loss due to frozen or broken water pipes by following the tips below:</p>
<p> <strong>Before Freezing Weather</strong></p>
<ul><li>
<p>Wrap all exposed pipes located outside or in unheated areas of the home.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Remove garden hoses from outside faucets.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Cover vents around the foundation of your home.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Know where your property owner’s cut-off valve is located and how to use it. The valve is located adjacent to the water meter box under a 6" metal lid.</p>
</li>
</ul><p><strong>In Sub-Freezing Weather </strong></p>
<ul><li>
<p>Drip outside faucets 24 hours a day (5 drops per minute). This is not necessary unless temperatures are expected to be 28 degrees or below for at least 4 hours. (Be sure to turn off the faucets after the threat of freezing weather.)</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Open cabinet doors under sinks adjacent to outside walls.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>In unheated garages, shut off water to washing machines. Water softeners should be drained and protected from freezing temperatures.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>In sustained sub-freezing weather, let water drip slowly from inside faucets.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Take extra precautions to protect pipes that have frozen in the past.</p>
</li>
</ul><p><strong>If You Are Not Going To Be At Home</strong></p>
<ul><li>
<p>Shut water off at the property owner’s cut-off valve.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Drain all outside water faucets if your house will be unoccupied for several days (leave outside faucets open).</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Or, leave the home heating system on at a low setting.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Open cabinet doors under sinks adjacent to outside walls.</p>
</li>
</ul><p>Renters and tenants may be responsible for personal property damage caused by broken water pipes during severe weather conditions. Residents should contact property management/landlord or maintenance personnel to locate the property owner’s cut-off valve and find ways to avoid pipe breakage during a freeze.</p>
<p> Austin Water encourages all customers to turn off irrigation systems during the winter months to help conserve water. However, businesses that continue to operate landscape irrigation systems are asked to shut their systems off in order to prevent possible freezing of pedestrian areas and damage caused by freezing conditions.</p>
<p> If a water line breaks and the cut off valve does not work or the customer is unable to locate or operate the value, Austin Water is available to turn off the water. Call Austin Water’s 24-Hour Emergency Hotline at 512-972-1000. For more information, please visit <a href="http://www.austintexas.gov/department/cold-weather-tips-potential-freezing-weather" target="_blank">austinwater.org</a>.</p>
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</div></div></div>Tue, 13 Nov 2018 22:09:00 +0000lunae55403 at http://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.usAustin Water Lifts Emergency Water Use Restrictions - Returns to Regular Operations and Conservation Stage Restrictionshttp://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.us/news/austin-water-lifts-emergency-water-use-restrictions-returns-regular-operations-and-conservation-stage-restrictions
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>AUSTIN - Austin Water Director Greg Meszaros has lifted emergency water use restrictions that have been in place since Monday, October 22, 2018. Customers can resume outdoor water use, including once-per-week watering.</p>
<p> The emergency water-use restrictions were enacted in response to flood waters that poured high levels of silt and debris into the water supply lakes and impacted operations at the City’s three water treatment plants that required a boil water notice.</p>
<p> “I want to thank our customers for their efforts to conserve water and especially during the recent emergency,” said Director Greg Meszaros, Austin Water. “Austin Water is reviewing the data from the flooding event to determine what steps are necessary to ensure the resiliency of our systems.”</p>
<p> Prior to the flooding, Austin Water was in Stage 1 of the Drought Contingency Plan. Since the water supply lakes are at full levels, the criteria have been met to lift the restrictions under Stage 1 and return to Conservation Stage. Austin Water officials urge customers to use water wisely. Recent rains and dropping temperatures reduce the need for outdoor watering.</p>
<p> <strong>Conservation Stage Watering Restrictions Summary</strong></p>
<ul><li>
Conservation Stage Watering Restrictions increase the total number of hours available for watering via automatic irrigation systems to 15 hours (midnight – 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. - midnight).</li>
<li>
All other watering restrictions remain unchanged including:
<ul><li>
Once-per-week automatic irrigation watering schedule will continue for residential and commercial water customers.</li>
<li>
Twice-per-week hose-end irrigation watering schedule will continue for residential customers.</li>
<li>
Residents can continue the following irrigation methods:
<ul><li>
drip irrigation,</li>
<li>
hand-held watering with a hose,</li>
<li>
watering trees with bubblers or a soaker hose.</li>
</ul></li>
<li>
Residential car washing is permitted with a bucket and/or hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle.</li>
<li>
Restaurants are prohibited from providing water unless requested by customers and must limit the use of patio misters to the hours between 4pm and midnight.</li>
</ul></li>
</ul><p>Water waste, including runoff, overspray and ponding is not permitted at any time, regardless of stage.<br />
<br />
For complete details about the drought contingency plan, triggers for additional water restrictions and other frequently asked questions, visit <a href="http://www.austintexas.gov/department/watering-restrictions">www.austintexas.gov/department/watering-restrictions</a></p>
</div></div></div>Tue, 13 Nov 2018 14:55:08 +0000lunae55377 at http://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.usAustin Water Lifts Boil Water Notice Mandatory Water Use Restrictions Remain in Place for Outdoor Wateringhttp://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.us/news/austin-water-lifts-boil-water-notice-mandatory-water-use-restrictions-remain-place-outdoor-watering
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<strong>AUSTIN- </strong>Austin Water has lifted the boil water notice that has been in place since Monday, Oct. 22, 2018. Customers no longer need to boil water used for drinking, cooking and making ice. Water quality testing submitted to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has confirmed that tap water meets all regulatory standards and is safe for human consumption.
<p> On October 23, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) required Austin Water, Public Water System ID#TX227001, to issue a Boil Water Notice to inform customers, individuals, or employees that due to conditions which occurred recently in the public water system, the water from this public water system was required to be boiled prior to use for drinking water or human consumption purposes.</p>
<p> The public water system has taken the necessary corrective actions to restore the quality of the water distributed by this public water system used for drinking water or human consumption purposes and has provided TCEQ with laboratory test results that indicate that the water no longer requires boiling prior to use as of October 28.</p>
<p> If customers have questions concerning this matter, they may contact <g class="gr_ gr_66 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" data-gr-id="66" id="66">City</g> of Austin 3-1-1, visit austintexas.gov/BoilH2O or follow @austinwater on social media.</p>
<p> The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has allowed the following Austin Water wholesale customers to lift their boil water notices: City of Rollingwood, City of Sunset Valley, Creedmoor Maha WSC, High Valley WSC, Marsha WSC, Mid-Tex Utility, Morningside Subdivision, Nighthawk WSC, Northtown MUD, North Austin MUD, Rivercrest Water System, Travis County WCID #10, and Wells Branch MUD.</p>
<p> <strong>Background</strong><br />
Historic flooding on the Llano River poured unprecedented amounts of dirt, silt <g class="gr_ gr_75 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" data-gr-id="75" id="75">and</g> debris into the Highland Lakes, the source of the City’s water supply. The flood waters significantly affected the clarity, known as turbidity, of the water in lakes Travis and Austin from which Austin draws its water. Typical levels of turbidity in the raw water from those lakes are around 5 NTU. (NTU is the measure of turbidity of the water.) As the flooding continued, turbidity readings peaked above 400 NTU in those lakes. With turbidity <g class="gr_ gr_74 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" data-gr-id="74" id="74">levels</g> 80 times typical conditions, much more time was required for water filtration at the City’s three water treatment plants, which significantly reduced the amount of water that Austin Water could produce for customers. Water levels in storage reservoirs were eventually drawn down to minimal levels and the risk of water shortages increased.</p>
<p> In response, Austin Water on Monday, Oct. 22 implemented mandatory water-use restrictions, urged customers to limit water use to basic needs, and issued a precautionary boil water notice. On Wednesday, Oct. 24, Austin Water announced that the boil water notice was mandatory because the turbidity standard for treated water within one treatment plant temporarily exceeded the state standard.</p>
<p> As the week continued, conditions on the lakes began to improve and water use by customers began to reduce. Turbidity levels of raw water from lakes Travis and Austin were ranging from 50 to 100 by Saturday, Oct. 27, the three water treatment plants were producing more water and levels in water reservoirs were increasingly being replenished.</p>
<p> “Thank you to our customers for your cooperation and for taking actions to cut back your water use. As we lift the boil water notice, we need your continued help to limit water use until our plants return to full operation levels,” said Greg Meszaros, Director of Austin Water.</p>
<p> “In our 100-year history, we have never seen conditions like we experienced this week. To say that this is unprecedented is an understatement. After we return to regular operations, staff will analyze the data and determine what steps are necessary to ensure the resiliency of our systems. We recognize the trust that our customers put in our services every day, and we will continue to work hard to maintain that trust. “</p>
<p> <strong>Water Quality Testing</strong><br />
Austin Water worked with state officials at TCEQ to establish corrective actions necessary to lift the boil water notice. The actions included analyzing more than 70 water samples from throughout the system across the City. Test results, reviewed by TCEQ officials, indicated that water provided by Austin meets all regulatory standards and is safe for human consumption. On Sunday, TCEQ gave the City of Austin the all-clear to lift the boil water notice.</p>
<p> <strong>Emergency Mandatory Water-Use Restrictions</strong><br />
The following emergency mandatory water-use restrictions remain in place until further notice. These restrictions are necessary to ensure that adequate water supply is available to meet customer needs while the system returns to normal operations.</p>
<p> Restrictions remaining in place include:</p>
<ul><li>
No outdoor irrigation</li>
<li>
No adding water to pools or spas</li>
<li>
No operation of ornamental fountains</li>
<li>
No at-home pressure washing, vehicle or surface washing</li>
</ul><p> Effective Monday, October 29, <g class="gr_ gr_78 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" data-gr-id="78" id="78">2018</g> at 10 a.m., the following commercial uses of outdoor water will be allowed:</p>
<ul><li>
Wash vehicles at a commercial car wash compliant with City Code 6-4-10 (B)</li>
<li>
Operate irrigation systems for the purpose of testing or repair by a licensed irrigation professional, and</li>
<li>
Conduct pressure washing using commercial equipment in compliance with City Code 6-4-11 (B)</li>
</ul><p> Austin Water continues to work closely with Austin-Travis County Emergency Operations Center and city, county <g class="gr_ gr_79 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" data-gr-id="79" id="79">and</g> state agencies to coordinate the final stages of the water treatment system recovery.</p>
<p> <strong>Customer Resources </strong><br />
Customers can visit <a href="http://austintexas.gov/boilh2o" target="_blank">austintexas.gov/BoilH2O</a> for the latest information and frequently asked questions. </p></div>
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</div></div></div>Sun, 28 Oct 2018 18:49:28 +0000lunae55161 at http://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.usMandatory Boil Water Notice Issuedhttp://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.us/news/mandatory-boil-water-notice-issued
<div class="field field-name-field-tagline field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><p> - - THIS NOTIFICATION IS REQUIRED BY STATE LAW - -</p>
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<strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Mandatory Boil Water Notice Issued</span></strong></h2>
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<span style="font-size: 17px;"> </span>- - THIS NOTIFICATION IS REQUIRED BY STATE LAW - -</h2>
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Austin Water is now issuing an official Boil Water notice as required by The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
<p> On the morning of Monday, October 22, as a precautionary measure, Austin Water issued a system-wide boil water notice -- alerting the public that all customers should boil water to prevent any potential health issues. At that point, Austin Water had not exceeded regulatory turbidity standards.</p>
<p> As of October 23, the turbidity standard has been exceeded and Austin Water is officially required by TCEQ regulatory requirements to issue a boil water notice.<br /><a name="_Hlk528090472" style="color: rgb(197, 46, 38);" id="_Hlk528090472"><br />
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality </a>(TCEQ) sets minimum water quality standards for public drinking water. One of these standards is a turbidity limit. Turbidity by itself has no health effects. However, turbidity can interfere with disinfection and provide a medium for microbial growth. Turbidity may also indicate the presence of disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches. These symptoms can be particularly severe in people who are not as resistant to infections as most of the population. If you experience severe symptoms, please consult with your doctor to determine what actions you should take.</p>
<p> Austin Water failed to meet the minimum treatment technique requirements for turbidity on Tuesday, October 23, 2018. Specifically, the turbidity level of 5.0 Nephelometric Turbidity Units.</p>
<p> At this point, the TCEQ requires utilities to issue this public notice and to tell all customers that they should boil their water prior to consumption – the step Austin Water took as a precaution earlier.</p>
<p> So, to ensure destruction of all harmful bacteria and other microbes, any water that you use for drinking, cooking, or ice making should be boiled prior to consumption. The water should be brought to a vigorous rolling boil and then boiled for three minutes. (Be sure to let it cool before drinking it.) In lieu of boiling, bottled water may be used. When it is no longer necessary to boil the water, we will notify you.</p>
<p> Austin Water has taken the following corrective actions to prevent a recurrence of the violations:</p>
<ul><li>
All customers are asked to continue to reduce their water use to meet basic needs.</li>
<li>
Prohibited outdoor water use.</li>
<li>
Continue to optimize our treatment process for turbidity removal and ensure there are good disinfection levels.</li>
</ul><p> If you want more information about the nature and significance of this violation, you may contact 3-1-1.</p>
<p> Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.</p>
<p> The boil water notice will be lifted once Austin Water can stabilize the treatment systems. Austin Water will notify residents when the water is safe for consumption and it is no longer necessary to boil the water.</p>
<p> For more information, boil water notice updates, frequently asked questions about boil water notices and additional resources, visit <a href="http://www.austintexas.gov/boilH2O" style="color: rgb(197, 46, 38); text-decoration-line: none;">http://www.austintexas.gov/boilH2O</a>. </p></div>
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</div></div></div>Wed, 24 Oct 2018 19:33:24 +0000lunae55132 at http://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.usAustin Water Issues City-wide Boil Water Noticehttp://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.us/news/austin-water-issues-city-wide-boil-water-notice
<div class="field field-name-field-tagline field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><p>Customers asked to boil water used for drinking, cooking or ice.</p>
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Austin Water relies on residents to take the following proactive steps while the utility continues to do everything in its power to restore water treatment to normal operations.</h2>
<p><strong>Updated: October 23, 2018 10 AM</strong></p>
<p>Boil Water Notice Remains in Effect. There is an urgent need for customers to reduce water use. Austin water treatment plants can currently produce approximately 105 million gallons of water per day. Current customer use is about 120 million gallons per day. Water reservoir levels are reaching minimal levels. Immediate action is needed to avoid running out of water. All residents are asked to reduce your personal consumption by 15 – 20 percent. Avoid all outdoor water use and minimize indoor use immediately. This is an emergency situation.</p>
<p>Actualización 4pm - Aviso de hervir agua en efecto. Existe una necesidad urgente de Austin Water que los clientes reduzcan el uso del agua. Las plantas de tratamiento de agua pueden producir aproximadamente 105 millones de galones de agua por día. El uso actual del cliente es 120 millones de galones. Los niveles de la reserva de agua están alcanzando niveles mínimos. Se necesita acción inmediata para evitar quedarse sin agua. A todos los residentes se les piden que reduzcan su consumo personal entre un 15 y un 20 por ciento. Evite todo uso de agua en exteriores y minimice el uso en interiores inmediatamente. Esta es una situación de emergencia.</p>
<h2>
Boil Water Notice is Still in Place – Emergency Conservation Now Required</h2>
<p>Austin Water Director Greg Meszaros has issued emergency water use restrictions, effective at 10 a.m., Monday, October 22, 2018.</p>
<p>Austin City Code Chapter 6-4-20 allows the Director to enact emergency restrictions to protect public health during an unusual operations event. Due to the high level of silt and debris in our water supply lakes as a result of recent flooding, there is an urgent need to reduce water demand to allow treatment plant operations to stabilize.</p>
<p>During this period and until further notice, all outdoor water use is prohibited. Customers may not:</p>
<ul><li>
Use water for irrigation or testing of irrigation equipment</li>
<li>
Wash vehicles, including at commercial car wash facilities</li>
<li>
Wash pavement or other surfaces</li>
<li>
Add water to a pool or spa</li>
<li>
Conduct foundation watering, or</li>
<li>
Operate an ornamental fountain or pond, other than aeration necessary to support aquatic life</li>
</ul><p>Violations of these restrictions should be reported to Austin 3-1-1. Austin Water appreciates your support in reducing water use to help stabilize Austin’s water treatment plants.</p>
<p>The emergency water use restrictions are necessary to ensure water is available for firefighting and basic needs. Historic flood waters flowing into our region’s water supply lakes, the Highland Lakes, contain much higher levels of debris, silt, and mud. As a result, Austin water is experiencing reduced water treatment capacity.</p>
<p>Austin Water has issued a city-wide boil water notice for all customers. To ensure that water is safe, customers are asked to boil water that is used for drinking, cooking or ice for three minutes.</p>
<p>The city-wide boil water notice is in addition to actions taken by the City over the last week to ensure the health and safety of our community during this flood event. These have included activating the Austin-Travis County Emergency Operations Center to closely monitor the evolving conditions, closing the City’s waterway, closing Parks and Recreation facilities along City waterways, monitoring and managing low-water crossings, and working with our neighbors to the west of Austin to respond to their own flood emergencies.</p>
<p>The Austin-Travis County Emergency Operations Center will remain active through the remainder of this situation and will be providing updates as conditions change.</p>
<p> </p>
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El aviso de hervir el agua todavía está en efecto: ahora se requiere la conservación de agua en situaciones de emergencia</h2>
<p>El Director del departamento de Agua de la Ciudad de Austin, Greg Meszaros, ha emitido restricciones de emergencia para el uso de agua, con vigencia a las 10 a.m., el lunes 22 de octubre de 2018.</p>
<p>El Código de la Ciudad de Austin, Capítulo 6-4-20, permite al Director promulgar restricciones de emergencia para proteger la salud pública durante un evento de operaciones inusual. Debido al alto nivel de sedimentos y escombros en nuestros lagos de suministro de agua como resultado de las recientes inundaciones, existe una necesidad urgente de reducir la demanda de agua para permitir que las operaciones de la planta de tratamiento se estabilicen.</p>
<p>Durante este período y hasta nuevo aviso, todo uso de agua al aire libre está prohibido. Los clientes no pueden:</p>
<ul><li>
Usar agua para riego o pruebas de equipos de riego.</li>
<li>
Lavar vehículos, incluso en instalaciones comerciales de lavado de autos</li>
<li>
Lavar el pavimento u otras superficies</li>
<li>
Añadir agua a una piscina o spa</li>
<li>
Llevar a cabo el riego de la fundación, o</li>
<li>
Operar una fuente o estanque ornamental, que no sea la aireación necesaria para apoyar la vida acuática</li>
</ul><p>Las violaciones de estas restricciones deben informarse a Austin 3-1-1. Austin Water aprecia su apoyo para reducir el uso de agua para ayudar a estabilizar las plantas de tratamiento de agua de Austin.</p>
<p>Las restricciones de emergencia de uso de agua son necesarias para garantizar que haya agua disponible para la extinción de incendios y necesidades básicas para la comunidad. Las inundaciónes históricas que fluyen en los lagos de suministro de agua de nuestra región, y los lagos Highland, contienen niveles mucho más altos de escombros, limo y lodo. Como resultado, la utilidad de agua de Austin está experimentando una capacidad reducida de agua tratada.</p>
<p>Austin Water ha emitido un aviso de hervir agua en toda la ciudad para todos los clientes. Para garantizar que el agua sea segura, se les pide a los clientes que hiervan el agua que se utiliza para beber, cocinar o consumo de hielo durante tres minutos.</p>
<p>El aviso de hervir agua en toda la ciudad es adicional a las medidas tomadas por la Ciudad durante la última semana para garantizar la salud y la seguridad de nuestra comunidad durante este evento de inundación. Estos incluyen la activación del Centro de Operaciones de Emergencia del Condado de Austin-Travis para monitorear de cerca la evolución de las condiciones, cerrar las vías navegables de la Ciudad, cerrar los parques y las instalaciones recreativas a lo largo de las vías fluviales de la Ciudad, monitorear y administrar los cruces de aguas bajas y trabajar con nuestros vecinos al oeste de Austin para responder a sus propias emergencias de inundaciones.</p>
<p>El Centro de Operaciones de Emergencia del Condado de Austin-Travis permanecerá activo durante el resto de esta situación y proporcionará actualizaciones a medida que cambien las condiciones.</p>
<p>Para obtener más información, visite <a href="http://assets.austintexas.gov/water/preguntas_mas_frecuentes.pdf">http://assets.austintexas.gov/water/preguntas_mas_frecuentes.pdf</a></p>
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<h2>
Austin Water Issues City-wide Boil Water Notice</h2>
<p>(Austin)- Austin Water has issued a city-wide boil water notice for all customers of Austin Water. The notice is being issued as the utility works to stabilize the water treatment system.</p>
<p>Historic flood waters flowing into our water supply lakes contain very high levels of silt that makes it challenging for the water plants to produce the volume of water needed to supply customers at this time. The high level of debris, silt and mud requires extended filtration that slows the process of getting treated water in to the system. To provide necessary water pressure for fire protection, plants must distribute water at treatment levels not typical of the utility's high standards for consumption.</p>
<p>To ensure that water is safe, customers are asked to boil water used for drinking, cooking or ice until further notice. It's important to note that there have been no positive tests for bacterial infiltration of the system at this time.</p>
<p>"Anyone who's seen the water running through Ladybird Lake can see how muddy it is. The unprecedented rain and runoff through our entire lake system has simply overwhelmed our treatment capacity," said Austin Mayor Steve Adler. "The good thing is that we can continue with most of our daily routines - like showering, hand washing and laundry - but we all need to do our part to conserve where we can, and boil the tap water we consume. We're working with our partners in the school systems, health care, food service and neighboring cities to make sure we're all working together."</p>
<p>What can customers do?</p>
<ul><li>
Reduce water use as much as possible to ensure adequate supply is available for basic needs, fire protection, public health and safety.</li>
<li>
Boil water intended for consumption. To ensure destruction of all harmful bacteria and other microbes, water for drinking, cooking and for making ice should be boiled and cooled prior to consumption. The water should be brought to a vigorous, rolling boil for three minutes. In lieu of boiling water, you may use bottled water.</li>
<li>
Businesses should not use drinking fountains or soda fountains that rely on tap water.</li>
</ul><p>The boil water notice will be lifted once Austin Water can stabilize the treatment systems. Austin Water will notify residents when the water is safe for consumption and it is no longer necessary to boil the water.</p>
<p>City of Austin and Austin Water are working in coordination with public health and safety partners in the region to keep the public informed.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<h2>
Boil Water Notice and FAQs</h2>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>A CITY-WIDE BOIL WATER NOTICE IS IN EFFECT AS OF OCTOBER 22, 2018</strong></p>
<p>To ensure destruction of all harmful bacteria and other microbes, water for drinking, cooking and for making ice should be boiled and cooled prior to consumption. The water should be brought to a vigorous, rolling boil for three minutes. You may also use bottled water. State laws require that a Boil Water Notice be issued if a water systems has (or could have) become contaminated from water main breaks, loss of system pressure, or results of routine sampling in the system.</p>
<ul><li>
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF A BOIL WATER NOTICE IS ISSUED?<br />
Do not drink the water without boiling it first. Bring all water to a rolling boil for at least three minutes, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, food preparation, and water for pets. Boiling kills harmful bacteria and other organisms in the water that may cause illness. You should throw away ice made during the time the notice was issued (freezing does not kill bacteria).</li>
<p></p>
<li>
IS THE WATER SAFE FOR WASHING DISHES, LAUNDRY, AND BATHING?<br />
The water is safe for washing dishes, but you should use hot, soapy water and rinse dishes in boiled water. There are no restrictions on doing laundry. The water is also safe for bathing.</li>
<p></p>
<li>
HOW DO I PREPARE FOOD AND BABY FORMULA?<br />
Only use boiled or bottled water for cooking, making ice, washing fruits and vegetables, and making baby formula. If you must use water to make formula, use bottled water. If you don't have bottled water, use water that has been rapidly boiled for at least three minutes.</li>
<p></p>
<li>
HOW LONG WILL THE NEED TO BOIL WATER CONTINUE?<br />
Customers should not stop boiling the water until they receive notice from Austin Water. Typically the need to boil water lasts for 24 to 48 hours, but can be longer. How long will depend on the conditions that caused the need to boil, how quickly the conditions are corrected, and how long it takes for laboratory results to confirm it is safe to return to normal water use. Austin Water will provide updates on the progress of corrective actions and how long the event is expected to last.</li>
<p></p>
<li>
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO WHEN THE NOTICE HAS BEEN LIFTED?<br />
Austin Water will notify you when it is no longer necessary to boil the water. You should flush your water system by running all cold water faucets in your home for at least one minute, cleaning automatic ice makers by making and discarding three batches of ice, and running water softeners through a regeneration cycle.</li>
<p></p>
<li>
WHY IS THE BOIL WATER NOTICE IMPORTANT?<br />
Inadequately treated water may contain harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites which can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. They may pose a special health risk for infants, young children, some of the elderly and people with severely compromised immune systems.</li>
<p></p>
<li>
WHAT ABOUT SCHOOLS AND HOSPITALS?<br />
Austin Water has been working with hospitals, medical facilities and schools during this event to alert them to the need to boil water for drinking and food preparation. Water may still be used for laundry and cleaning.</li>
</ul><h2>
RESOURCES</h2>
<h4>
For questions or concerns, please contact 3-1-1.</h4>
<p><a href="http://dl2.ahasalerts.com/activealerts.aspx?id=790">Information in American Sign Language</a></p>
<p><a href="http://assets.austintexas.gov/water/Arabic_Boil_Water.pdf">Information in Arabic</a></p>
<p><a href="http://assets.austintexas.gov/water/Korean_Boil_Water.pdf">Information in Korean</a></p>
<p><a href="http://assets.austintexas.gov/water/preguntas_mas_frecuentes.pdf">Information in Spanish</a></p>
<p><a href="http://assets.austintexas.gov/water/Boil_Water_Simplified_Chinese.pdf">Information in Simplified Chinese</a></p>
<p><a href="http://assets.austintexas.gov/water/Boil_Water_Traditional_Chinese.pdf">Information in Traditional Chinese</a></p>
<p><a href="http://assets.austintexas.gov/water/Boil_Water_Vietnamese.pdf">Information in Vietnamese</a></p>
<p><strong>MAP OF AUSTIN WATER'S SERVICE AREA</strong></p>
<ul><li>
<a href="http://assets.austintexas.gov/water/AustinWaterServiceAreaV2.pdf">Print the map of Austin Water's Service Area</a></li>
</ul><p><img alt="boil water service area map" src="http://www.austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Water/PIO/boil_water_service_area_map.png" style="width: 555px; height: 703px;" /></p>
</div></div></div>Mon, 22 Oct 2018 06:34:28 +0000lunae55092 at http://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.usEmergency Water Use Restrictions Issued - Restrictions due to high level of silt/debris in our water supply lakes.http://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.us/news/emergency-water-use-restrictions-issued-restrictions-due-high-level-siltdebris-our-water-supply-lakes
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>Austin Water Director Greg Meszaros has issued emergency water use restrictions, effective at 10 a.m., Monday, October 22, 2018. </p>
<p>Austin City Code Chapter 6-4-20 allows the Director to enact emergency restrictions to protect public health during an unusual operations event. Due to the high level of silt and debris in our water supply lakes as a result of recent flooding, there is an urgent need to reduce water demand to allow treatment plant operations to stabilize.</p>
<p>During this period and until further notice, all outdoor water use is prohibited. Customers may not:</p>
<ul><li>
Use water for irrigation or testing of irrigation equipment</li>
<li>
Wash vehicles, including at commercial car wash facilities</li>
<li>
Wash pavement or other surfaces</li>
<li>
Add water to a pool or spa</li>
<li>
Conduct foundation watering, or</li>
<li>
Operate an ornamental fountain or pond, other than aeration necessary to support aquatic life </li>
</ul><p>Violations of these restrictions should be reported to Austin 3-1-1. Austin Water appreciates your support in reducing water use to help stabilize Austin’s water treatment plants.<br />
<br />
The emergency water use restrictions are necessary to ensure water is available for firefighting and basic needs. Historic flood waters flowing into our region’s water supply lakes, the Highland Lakes, contain much higher levels of debris, silt, and mud. As a result, Austin water is experiencing reduced water treatment capacity.<br />
<br />
Austin Water has issued a city-wide boil water notice for all customers. To ensure that water is safe, customers are asked to boil water that is used for drinking, cooking or ice for three minutes.<br />
<br />
The city-wide boil water notice is in addition to actions taken by the City over the last week to ensure the health and safety of our community during this flood event. These have included activating the Austin-Travis County Emergency Operations Center to closely monitor the evolving conditions, closing the City’s waterway, closing Parks and Recreation facilities along City waterways, monitoring and managing low-water crossings, and working with our neighbors to the west of Austin to respond to their own flood emergencies.</p>
<p>The Austin-Travis County Emergency Operations Center will remain active through the remainder of this situation and will be providing updates as conditions change.<br />
<br />
For more information visit <a href="http://www.austintexas.gov/boilh2o">austintexas.gov/boilh2o.</a></p>
<p><strong>Espanol</strong></p>
<h2>
El aviso de hervir el agua todavía está en efecto: ahora se requiere la conservación de agua en situaciones de emergencia</h2>
<p>El Director del departamento de Agua de la Ciudad de Austin, Greg Meszaros, ha emitido restricciones de emergencia para el uso de agua, con vigencia a las 10 a.m., el lunes 22 de octubre de 2018.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">El Código de la Ciudad de Austin, Capítulo 6-4-20, permite al Director promulgar restricciones de emergencia para proteger la salud pública durante un evento de operaciones inusual. Debido al alto nivel de sedimentos y escombros en nuestros lagos de suministro de agua como resultado de las recientes inundaciones, existe una necesidad urgente de reducir la demanda de agua para permitir que las operaciones de la planta de tratamiento se estabilicen.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Durante este período y hasta nuevo aviso, todo uso de agua al aire libre está prohibido. Los clientes no pueden:</p>
<ul style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><li>
Usar agua para riego o pruebas de equipos de riego.</li>
<li>
Lavar vehículos, incluso en instalaciones comerciales de lavado de autos</li>
<li>
Lavar el pavimento u otras superficies</li>
<li>
Añadir agua a una piscina o spa</li>
<li>
Llevar a cabo el riego de la fundación, o</li>
<li>
Operar una fuente o estanque ornamental, que no sea la aireación necesaria para apoyar la vida acuática</li>
</ul><p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Las violaciones de estas restricciones deben informarse a Austin 3-1-1. Austin Water aprecia su apoyo para reducir el uso de agua para ayudar a estabilizar las plantas de tratamiento de agua de Austin.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;">Las restricciones de emergencia de uso de agua son necesarias para garantizar que haya agua disponible para la extinción de incendios y necesidades básicas para la comunidad. Las inundaciónes históricas que fluyen en los lagos de suministro de agua de nuestra región, y los lagos Highland, contienen niveles mucho más altos de escombros, limo y lodo. Como resultado, la utilidad de agua de Austin está experimentando una capacidad reducida de agua tratada.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Austin Water ha emitido un aviso de hervir agua en toda la ciudad para todos los clientes. Para garantizar que el agua sea segura, se les pide a los clientes que hiervan el agua que se utiliza para beber, cocinar o consumo de hielo durante tres minutos.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">El aviso de hervir agua en toda la ciudad es adicional a las medidas tomadas por la Ciudad durante la última semana para garantizar la salud y la seguridad de nuestra comunidad durante este evento de inundación. Estos incluyen la activación del Centro de Operaciones de Emergencia del Condado de Austin-Travis para monitorear de cerca la evolución de las condiciones, cerrar las vías navegables de la Ciudad, cerrar los parques y las instalaciones recreativas a lo largo de las vías fluviales de la Ciudad, monitorear y administrar los cruces de aguas bajas y trabajar con nuestros vecinos al oeste de Austin para responder a sus propias emergencias de inundaciones.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">El Centro de Operaciones de Emergencia del Condado de Austin-Travis permanecerá activo durante el resto de esta situación y proporcionará actualizaciones a medida que cambien las condiciones.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Para mas informacion, visite austintexas.gov/BoilH2O</p>
</div></div></div>Mon, 22 Oct 2018 20:31:36 +0000lunae55106 at http://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.usAustin Water Issues Urgent Call for Reducing Water Use - Flood Waters Impacting Operations at Water Treatment Plantshttp://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.us/news/austin-water-issues-urgent-call-reducing-water-use-flood-waters-impacting-operations-water-treatment-plants
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>AUSTIN, TX — Historic flood waters flowing into our region’s water supply lakes, the Highland Lakes, contain much higher levels of debris, silt, and mud. As a result, Austin water is experiencing reduced water treatment capacity. It is taking more time to filter and treat the water to remove the higher levels of silt and debris.</p>
<p> Despite the higher levels of debris, water treatment plants are delivering drinking water to your homes and businesses that is safe to drink.</p>
<p> During the flood event, we’ve seen the cloudiness of the lake water increase by 100 times from the typical condition of the Highland Lakes. This demonstrates the extreme levels of silt and debris that must be removed from the water at Austin Water treatment plants.</p>
<p> To ensure we have adequate water for customers’ basic needs and fire protection, Austin Water is asking all customers to cut back on your water use as much as possible, including:</p>
<ul><li>
No outdoor watering,</li>
<li>
Minimize indoor water use by postponing clothes washing and dishwashing as long as possible, and</li>
<li>
Taking shorter showers</li>
</ul><p>Any steps you can take to minimize water use at this time will help ensure we have adequate water. We urge customers to do all that you can to conserve water and help us.</p>
<p> Austin Water continues to monitor the plant operations and will provide regular updates on social and media and our website.</p>
<p> Please visit austinwater.org for updates. Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AustinWater">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/AustinWater">Twitter</a>.</p>
</div></div></div>Sun, 21 Oct 2018 16:52:47 +0000lunae55091 at http://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.usWest Gate Blvd Partial Closure to Begin Oct. 1http://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.us/news/west-gate-blvd-partial-closure-begin-oct-1
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>AUSTIN, TX – Southbound West Gate Blvd. between William Cannon Dr. and Fentonridge Dr. will be closed beginning October 1, 2018, for replacement of sections of the water main. Northbound West Gate Blvd will be converted to a two-way street with one southbound and one northbound lane.<br />
<br />
Austin Water will replace sections of the 48-inch water main along West Gate Blvd south of William Cannon Dr. Austin Water has located 3 sections of the water main, approximately 100 feet total, that are damaged. These sections will be replaced to prevent a major water main break in the future.<br />
<br />
The project is expected to take about 4 weeks to complete. Any concerns during construction should be reported to Austin Water Dispatch at 512-972-1000.<br />
<br />
A public meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 26, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the conference room at Westgate Lanes to discuss this project. In addition, Austin Transportation will discuss initial plans for long-term mobility and safety improvements along West Gate Boulevard. The meeting is an open house, come-and-go format.</p>
</div></div></div>Wed, 26 Sep 2018 14:37:34 +0000lunae54736 at http://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.usAustin Enters Stage 1 of Drought Contingency Plan - New Watering Restrictions to take effect August 27 http://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.us/news/austin-enters-stage-1-drought-contingency-plan-new-watering-restrictions-take-effect-august-27
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>(Austin)— The combined storage level of water in Lakes Travis and Buchanan has dropped below 1.4 million acre-feet. Austin’s Drought Contingency Plan sets a trigger at this storage level at which the City Manager may order the implementation of Stage 1 conservation measures. Consistent with that, and the City’s Water Conservation Code, City Manager Spencer Cronk has ordered implementation of Stage 1, effective August 27. This comes after a 2-year stretch at the lowest stage of the Water Conservation Code.</p>
<p> “The only change between Conservation Stage and Stage 1 is the reduction of available automatic irrigation watering hours,” said Greg Meszaros, Director of Austin Water. “Making this adjustment, watering only in the early morning or late evening hours when temperatures are coolest, will reduce unnecessary water loss through evaporation and help with Austin’s water conservation efforts.”</p>
<p>Austin Water will begin publicizing the new changes immediately online and on social media, through in-person outreach events around the community and via print and radio advertisements.</p>
<p><strong>Stage 1 Watering Restrictions Summary</strong></p>
<ul><li>
Stage 1 Watering Restrictions reduce the total number of hours available for watering via automatic irrigation systems from 15 hours to 13 hours (Midnight - 8am and 7pm - midnight).</li>
<li>
All other watering restrictions remain unchanged including:
<ul><li>
Once-per-week automatic irrigation watering schedule will continue for residential and commercial water customers.</li>
<li>
Twice-per-week hose-end irrigation watering schedule will continue for residential customers.</li>
<li>
Residents can continue the following irrigation methods without restrictions:
<ul><li>
drip irrigation,</li>
<li>
hand-held watering with hose,</li>
<li>
watering trees with automatic bubblers,</li>
<li>
automatic drip irrigation,</li>
<li>
…or with a soaker hose beneath the tree canopy.</li>
</ul></li>
<li>
Residential car-wash is permitted with bucket and/or automatic shut-off nozzle.</li>
<li>
Restaurants are prohibited from providing water unless requested by customers and will limit the use of patio misters to the hours between 4pm and midnight.</li>
<li>
For complete details, visit <a href="http://www.waterwiseaustin.org">waterwiseaustin.org </a></li>
</ul></li>
</ul><p><a href="http://www.austintexas.gov/department/watering-restrictions"><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/files/Water/Conservation/Stage_1_ALL.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 230px;" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Drought in Central Texas</strong></p>
<p>While the changes in restrictions for Stage 1 are limited, Austin Water also views the declaration of Stage 1 as an opportunity, and obligation, to inform citizens about the current situation with drought and lake volume. Although some rain has fallen in Central Texas this year, much of that rain simply soaked into the parched soil, never making its way into the streams and rivers that replenish the Highland Lakes.</p>
<p>“With the triple digit temperatures and ongoing dry conditions, we could be heading into a serious situation,” said Daryl Slusher, Assistant Director of Austin Water – Environmental Affairs and Conservation. “We encourage folks to respond like they did in the last drought and do everything possible to conserve water.”</p>
<p>Slusher pointed out that, according to LCRA figures, 2017 was the 8th driest year of cumulative inflows to Lakes Travis and Buchanan since the lakes came into existence in 1942. So far 2018 is even drier than 2017, with every single month of 2018 to-date measuring below the inflows for the same month in 2017. The inflows to the lakes thus far this year are the 3<sup>rd</sup> lowest for the January through July timeframe.</p>
<p>Slusher added that the return of drought is likely an impact of climate change. “While no single event can be attributed to climate change,” he said, “climate models predict more extremes of drought and flood for our region. That is a pretty good description of what we have experienced over the last decade.”</p>
<div align="center">
<hr align="center" size="3" width="100%" /></div>
<p>For more than 100 years, Austin Water has been committed to providing safe, reliable, high quality, sustainable and affordable water services to our customers. Austin Water consistently ranks among the best in the country when it comes to water quality.</p>
<p>For complete details about the drought contingency plan, triggers for additional water restrictions and other frequently asked questions, visit <a href="http://www.waterwiseaustin.org"><strong>waterwiseaustin.org</strong></a></p>
<p class="rtecenter"># # #</p>
</div></div></div>Thu, 23 Aug 2018 15:31:51 +0000lunae54251 at http://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.usMedia Advisory - Water Sampling and Austin Water Employeeshttp://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.us/news/media-advisory-water-sampling-and-austin-water-employees
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>Austin)—Austin Water has received several calls from residents reporting having been solicited for a water sample by an unidentified individual. Residents reported that the individual had claimed the drinking water was unsafe to drink. </p>
<h5>
What to know about Austin’s water, water sampling, and Austin Water personnel.</h5>
<p>Austin’s water supply is safe to use and meets all drinking water standards. Austin residents should also know the following essential points about water sampling by Austin Water.</p>
<ul><li>
Austin Water personnel will not show up at a residence unannounced and ask to sample water;</li>
<li>
Austin Water personnel will not ask the customer for a water sample and then tell them that it is contaminated in a single visit;</li>
<li>
Austin Water personnel do not go into residences to conduct any sampling;</li>
<li>
…and Austin Water employees will always have required city identification and drive marked city vehicles.</li>
</ul><h5>
About Water Quality and Austin Water</h5>
<ul><li>
To learn more about <a href="http://austintexas.gov/department/drinking-water-quality-report">water quality</a>, <a href="http://austintexas.gov/boilH2O">boil water notices</a> and more, visit austinwater.org</li>
<li>
To report a water-related emergency or to check on work being conducted by an Austin Water employee in your neighborhood, call Austin Water 24-hour Emergency Dispatch Line at 512-972-1000.</li>
</ul><p>Anyone that feels they have been a victim, please file a report with Austin 3-1-1. If you feel an immediate threat, please call 9-1-1.</p>
<h5>
About Austin Water</h5>
<p>For more than 100 years, Austin Water has been committed to providing safe, reliable, high quality, sustainable and affordable water services to our customers. </p>
<p class="rtecenter"># # #</p>
</div></div></div>Mon, 30 Jul 2018 19:27:21 +0000lunae53951 at http://stevieray.ci.austin.tx.us